Tutorial #13

Creating a Mask
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To create a mask layer:

1. Create the content
   Draw a rectangle on the stage. Fill it with a solid color other than black or white. For this example I'll use red. This is the layer that will be visible through the holes in the mask.
   
   
   
2. Create the MASKING LAYER
   With the layer selected, choose INSERT / LAYER to create a new layer above it. A mask layer always masks the layer immediately below it, so be sure to create the mask layer in the proper place.
   
   
   
3. Create the mask layer content
   Type the word MASK in the first frame of the masking layer. Fill it with any color other than the color of the masked object so you can see it. Change the FONT size to 96 pts by selecting FONT / SIZE from the menu bar. You could also use a filled shape or create an instance of a symbol on the mask layer. Flash ignores bitmaps, gradients, transparency, colors, and line styles in a mask layer. Any filled area will be completely transparent in the mask; any nonfilled area will be opaque.
   
   
   
4. Coverting the layer to a masking layer
   Right-click the mask layer's name in the TIMELINE and choose MASK from the context menu.
   The layer is converted to a mask layer, indicated by a down arrow icon. The layer immediately below it is linked to the mask layer, and its contents show through the filled area on the mask.
   
   
   
5. Viewing the mask effect
   The masked layer name is indented, and its icon changes to a right-pointing arrow.
   To display the mask effect in Flash, lock the mask layer and the masked layer.